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Fundamentally, you have 2
options: “do-it-yourself” or “full-service.” If you have basic hand tools
and a spirit of adventure, you can remove the lock from the door and bring it
in for repair or replacement. The advantage is that you save $$ on a service
call. The disadvantages are as follows:
1) If the problem has
to do with the alignment of the door and frame or is related to the quality
of the installation, the locksmith at the shop will not be able to solve that
problem for you. Probably 30% or more of the lock repair calls we do are
related to the door/frame alignment! See also
strike.
2) No locksmith or lock manufacturer will
warranty your work. The fastest way to ruin a lock is to install it
improperly. You may save $45 today by doing it yourself, only to pay us $75
or more to come out tonight to get you back in!
3) If you don’t know what you’re doing, you can
actually make the problem much worse just trying to remove the lock from the
door! We’ve known homeowners who have ruined the entire lock assembly on an
old house--to the tune of $500 and a loss of architectural integrity--in an
attempt to avoid a $45 service call.
If you’d rather let a
professional service the lock on-site, try to have the following information
when you contact us or a
locksmith in
your area.
1) Record any brand or model number that is
evident on the lock. If any such information is available, it is usually on
the edge of the door. Any names, numbers, or letters on your key may also
provide clues about the type of lock you have. Also make note of the color
of the hardware and whether the door is wood, metal, or glass.
2) Try to have a good description of the nature
of the problem. “The key won’t even go in.” “The key goes in but won’t
turn.” “The key spins around and around but still won’t open.”
3) Be prepared to tell the locksmith the
exact location of the property. Please find out your correct street
address before you call!
If it seems that the locksmith
is playing 20 questions, be patient. We only want to give you the best
advice and show up with the correct materials the first time if at all
possible! And remember, our cost estimate can only be as accurate and
specific as the information you provide! | 